Though Valentine’s Day was yesterday, it’s still, in my opinion, perfectly acceptable to celebrate and gorge on chocolate throughout the weekend. How are you celebrating love this week? I splurged on an $8 chew for my dog that he ate in approximately 30 seconds, passed out chocolates to my undergraduate students to soften the fact that their papers are due next week, and scooped up all the dog poop in the yard so that my husband didn’t have to—a sign of true love.
If you’re still looking for some good ideas for going out in Seattle with your love, your loves, or yourself, read on for the best romantic and fun spots.
For Adults:
1. Canon
I’ll start with my husband and I’s personal favorite. In 2014, this bar won a spot on the list of best cocktail bars in the world. In 2017, Canon won another prestigious award for the best spirits collection in the world. Despite all of these fancy awards, however, the bar maintains a down-to-earth, cozy vibe with dim lighting and reasonable cocktail prices. Get there early—there’s almost always a wait to squeeze into this small, intimate space.
With nearly 200 Yelp reviews singing its praises, this bar promises a fun, quirky date night. Reviewers rave about its pizzas and salads, as well as the cheap happy hour—guests can order discounted plates and $8 cocktails between 3:30 and 6:30 every day.
3. Cabaret and Burlesque at The Pink Door
Attending a burlesque performance always makes me feel as though I’ve been transported back to a chic bygone era. The Pink Door hosts cabaret and burlesque every Saturday evening, though tickets tend to sell out fast, so be sure to book a couple of weeks in advance. The price includes the performance and a dinner featuring Italian classics. Other events at the Pink Door include aerial performances, live jazz, and tarot readings.
4. Twisted Cabaret: My Twisted Valentine
Speaking of cabaret, this event at Seattle’s Hales Ales Palladium features Frank Olivier, who promises to juggle, mind read, throw knives, perform magic tricks, and eat fire. If you need something to spice up your love life, then, well—watching a man throw knives and eat fire might be just the thing.
Started by women in 1997, the Everett Film Festival takes place this Saturday and Sunday and offers a wide range of diverse talents. Lombardi’s Italian Restaurant will provide dinner Saturday night, while other local eateries will provide snacks on Sunday.
6. Wine and Chocolate in Tacoma
This event takes place in Wright Park’s Conservatory. Guests can enjoy live music, champagne, savory bites, and chocolate from local chocolatiers while admiring beautifully lit floral displays.
For Families:
Pacific Northwest Film Forum hosts this international film festival. Highlights include an interactive installation based on silhouette animation, an all-Spanish program, Japanese-language films, and films from indigenous artists.
2. Valentine’s Day Dash at Green Lake
You can still register for this event that takes place this Saturday, February 16th! Opt to participate in a 5K or 10K run/walk and then enjoy brownies, beer, and mimosas. Kids can participate in a free Kid Dash. Sections of the course include a Tunnel of Love where loved ones can post special messages to one another.
3. Octopus Week at the Seattle Aquarium
Do we need to say more? This special event at the aquarium includes diving shows, meetings with real octopi, story time, and other hands-on activities. I can’t think of a more romantic setting than the aquarium’s cool, watery halls and colorful creatures.
However you celebrate love, enjoy your weekends, and get in touch with the Pickett Street team for more information about the Seattle and Puget Sound area at info@pickettstreet.com or 425-502-5397.